BRAC University has been awarded the Duke of Edinburgh’s international award, empowerment trophy, in recognition of enrolling the highest number of participants globally in the award’s non-formal education and learning programme during the 2024–2025 session.
The trophy was handed over by British high commissioner to Bangladesh, Sarah Cooke, to BRAC University vice-chancellor Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar at a ceremony in Dhaka’s RAOWA Complex on Tuesday, said a press release.
The event was hosted by the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Foundation Bangladesh, which champions youth development through skills training, fitness, adventure, and volunteering.
At BRAC University, experiential learning plays a central role in shaping responsible leaders of tomorrow. Through its
residential semester, students live and learn together in an immersive environment that emphasises community service, ethical decision-making and problem-solving rooted in empathy.
‘Experiential learning is at the core of BRAC University,’ said Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, adding, ‘Through the residential semester and programmes like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, our students discover that leadership is not taught in classrooms alone — it is lived, practiced, and earned through real experiences.’
Professor Anwar further noted that the recognition reflects BRAC University’s commitment to advancing the United Nations sustainable development goals 4, quality education, and 17, partnerships for the goals.
Senior representatives, including Tahsina Rahman, joint director, Student Life, BRAC University; Rizwan Bin Farouqe, chairman, board of trustees, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Foundation Bangladesh; and Talita Choudhury, treasurer, Foundation, joined education leaders, coordinators and volunteers in celebrating this milestone for youth empowerment and leadership development.
Since joining the programme in January 2020, 3,147 BRAC University students have participated in activities under the award’s framework, making the university a leader among the 125 institutions in Bangladesh implementing it.
